River Arun is given a ‘seal’ of approval

Seal-seekers in Littlehampton, Arundel and Ford, have been out in force, snapping photos of the unusual guest over the past few days. He was clearly enjoying his latest meal in this picture, captured by Littlehampton man André Pallat.

The animal, believed to be a grey seal, was first sighted in Littlehampton’s harbour. However, it has also been spotted sunbathing near The Waterside bistro, in Arundel.

Steve Savage, Sussex regional co-ordinator for the Sea Watch Foundation, said: “Grey seals are less common along Sussex’s coastline as they prefer rocky shores.”

He added that there had been reports of a grey seal moulting in May on a beach in East Sussex. “This could be the same seal,” he speculated. “A grey seal is also seen in Chichester Harbour area from time to time.”

The last time a seal was recorded as being sighted in the Arun was in 2011.

Steve is urging those who see seals in the river to contact him, by e-mailing [email protected]

The information will then be used to help protect the animals.